Low-Carb Diets and Pregnancy

"I'm hoping not to gain too much weight during my pregnancy. Low-carb diets have helped me keep my weight down in the past. Can I go on one now?"

Many women dread packing on those pregnancy pounds — especially packing on too many pounds. But low (at least as far as carbs are concerned) isn't the way to go when you're expecting, even if you're a weight watcher from way back. And here's why: A diet without complex carbohydrates is a diet deficient in vital baby-making nutrients — including the ever-important folic acid, among other vitamins and minerals, as well as good-for-mom fiber (which fights constipation) and B vitamins (which combat morning sickness). What's more, a low-carb diet is usually sky-high in protein; while a moderate protein intake (about 75 grams, or three servings a day) is good for a developing fetus; much more than that isn't.

So how can you maintain a healthy weight gain without relying on diet fads? By eating a well-balanced mix of those healthy complex carbohydrates (and the operative word is "complex"), such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean protein and calcium-rich foods, and staying away from high fat and junk foods.